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France features beautiful countrysides and romantic cities filled with monuments and other tourist attractions. Many visitors travel to France to visit the star-studded Riviera or explore its verdant vineyards. Travelers seeking to explore France's popular monuments find many of them in or near Paris. To explore the entire country, buy a pass for France's extensive national rail system.

Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower in Paris -- one of France's most famous monuments -- was built over the course of two years during the late 1880s; it was constructed to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. Nearly 7 million people visit the 1,062-foot tower annually, making it one of the world's most popular monuments. Visitors usually take the tower's stairs to the second level, or one of three lifts to the top. Shops and restaurants are located on each of two levels, and the top of the tower holds a champagne bar. The tower stays open for tours until 11 p.m. daily, allowing you to view the city lights from high above.

Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe de l'Etoile -- also in Paris -- was commissioned by Napoleon after he won a major battle in 1806. The 162-foot high monument features engravings to commemorate many of France's military victories, along with the names of 558 generals who helped win the battles. An unknown soldier's tomb was buried beneath the arch in 1920. The monument lies at the center of 12 streets that radiate outward in the shape of a star. L'etoile translates to "star." The arch holds a small museum detailing its history. Visitors are permitted to access the arch's roof and enjoy views of Paris.

Palace of Versaille

The Palace of Versaille -- about a half-hour drive outside of Paris -- housed Marie-Antoinette and Louis XVI during the 1700s; it was the center of ruling power until 1789. Encompassing nearly 2,000 acres, the grounds include meticulously landscaped gardens designed over a 40 year span. Walk through the main palace's Hall of Mirrors with its many chandeliers; it features ceilings hand-painted with images depicting the royal family's history.

Louvre

Visit Paris' Louvre museum, which houses both both contemporary and historic art from all over the world. See ancient Egyptian and Greek works, along with more modern painters and sculptors. The museum houses both a permanent collection and temporary exhibits. See the Louvre's iconic glass pyramid that rises from the middle of the museum's outdoor courtyard. Inside the museum, the glass area looks like a huge skylight. Visitors tour the museum every day except for Tuesday; the Louvre closes on major French holidays.